New aircraft, new logo, new look

Ethiopian Airlines provides more access to the Cradle of Civilization

BY LEWIS B. BRINSON

After a few years out of its familiar perch as the No. 1 airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines is back on top. The airline recently renewed its fleet with a mixed order for six new Boeing 737 and 767 airplanes.

After announcing an aggressive fleet renewal and expansion program, Ethiopian also is looking to add six additional airplanes, including more 737s and 767s. The carrier recently took delivery of its sixth 767-300ER airplane.

Commercial airplane travel in Africa continues to grow at an annual rate of 5 percent. With a unique heritage and rich culture, Ethiopia is creating demand by offering more options to fly to the country.

Situated in northeastern Africa, bordering Sudan to the north and northwest, Eritrea to the north and northeast, Djibouti to the east, Somalia to the southeast, and Kenya to the south, Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The earliest evidence of Ethiopian history was around 1000 B.C. when the Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon. Ethiopia is home not only to nearly 100 different tribes, but 100 different languages and cultures.

Because of its age, Ethiopia has been touted as the “cradle of civilization.” The country, roughly twice as big as Texas, hosts a variety of distinct geographical zones and contrasts. Its lowest elevation is 120 meters below sea level, and it also is home of the fourth-highest peak in Africa, Ras Dashan, located in the Simien Mountains. Some have called Ethiopia the land of “timeless appeal.”

Late last year, Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing participated in a traditional Ethiopian welcome ceremony in Addis Ababa as Boeing introduced Ethiopian’s first 767-300ER on its arrival in Ethiopia.

“We selected the Boeing 737s and 767s to help us execute our renewal and expansion plans to meet the growing demand in markets we serve to and from Ethiopia,” said Bisrat Nigatu, chief executive officer for Ethiopian Airlines, now retired. “Our decision was based on a combination of operational, commercial and economic considerations.”

Ethiopian Airlines is one of the few airlines that have continued to grow during the past two years during the unprecedented downturn in the international airline industry. It is also the only airline in sub-Saharan Africa run entirely by local nationals.

Together, Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines are the bridge builders contributing to the economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa. “One of the key ways that we are helping to open up trade with Africa is by supporting U.S. exports to Africa’s transportation infrastructure,” said April Foley, vice chair of the U.S. Export-Import Bank. “Civil aviation is critical to a country and a continent’s economic and trade growth.”

Ethiopia is also only the second country in the world to ratify the Cape Town Convention and has taken a leadership role among African countries on this treaty. The Cape Town Treaty was designed to protect the security interest of aircraft, aircraft engines and helicopters. It is used to facilitate asset-based financing and leasing of mobile equipment, including airframes and aircraft engines. It is helping Ethiopian and airlines around the world to upgrade and expand their fleets.

The delivery of the first 767-300ER demonstrated the strength in the Boeing brand and the strong long-term relationship that exists between Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines. A long-time customer, Ethiopian Airlines operates a Boeing-dominated fleet that now includes six 767-300ERs, one 767-200, four 757s and three 737s.

Ethiopian Airlines plays a key role in the sub-Saharan African region, where it has established a maintenance center capable of performing all heavy checks. The center has been certified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.

“The combination of the right airplanes and strong leadership is the backbone of this experienced airline,” said Jerry Calhoun, Boeing vice president, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Calhoun participated in the 767-300ER delivery ceremony events in Addis Ababa.

Successfully operating as one of the leading airlines in Africa for more than 50 years, the airline has unveiled a fresh new livery that signifies its renewal, expansion and confidence.

This investment for the future made by Ethiopian Airlines will enhance its ability to compete in the areas of customer service, market development and profitability.

“Ethiopian Airlines has been built on trust and performance,” said Ihssane Mounir, sales director for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Ethiopian’s knowledge and years of experience in the industry will continue to make them successful in the future.”

lewis.b.brinson@boeing.com